Msgr. Rice, Pittsburgh labor priest, honored as working-class hero

Published: 2004-08-03

CASTLE SHANNON, Pa. (CNS) -- Msgr. Charles Owen Rice heard the Lord's call to priestly ministry more than 70 years ago. Since then, he has dedicated his life to serving God's people, especially the working class. Pittsburgh's labor priest and longtime columnist for the Pittsburgh Catholic diocesan newspaper was honored for his 70 years as a priest during a Mass July 11 at St. Anne in Castle Shannon, where he resides. Bishop Donald W. Wuerl and retired Auxiliary Bishop John B. McDowell of Pittsburgh, three dozen priests, and religious and labor leaders were among those who came together for the celebration. Bishop Wuerl spoke of a man whose work with organized labor often earned him the title of "controversial." He noted Msgr. Rice's profound conviction to fight for the least of his neighbors.

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